Signs It’s Time to Get Your Prostate Checked

Men undergo a number of changes once they reach 40. Thinning hair, a slower metabolism, and prostate exams are all par for the course after this age. Unfortunately, too many men leave prostate exams at the bottom of their health and wellness to-do lists when they should be a priority.

Even though prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, it’s also completely treatable if you catch it in time.

Factors That Can Impact the Health of Your Prostate

Prostate health isn’t determined by a single factor—it’s the result of a combination of influences that span genetics, lifestyle, diet, and overall wellness. By understanding these factors, you can take a proactive approach to maintaining a healthy prostate.

Age

As men get older, the prostate naturally enlarges. While benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is common with advancing age, changes in prostate tissue can also increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Genetics

Genetics also play a leading role. Men with a family history of prostate cancer or related conditions are at a higher risk, making early and regular screening even more important.

Lifestyle Choices

What you eat can have a significant impact on your prostate health. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats—such as those found in the Mediterranean diet—help reduce inflammation and provide antioxidants that support prostate function. Conversely, a diet high in red meat, dairy, and unhealthy fats may increase the risk of prostate issues.

Regular physical activity is just as important as it helps you maintain a healthy weight and improves blood circulation. Studies have shown that consistent exercise can lower the risk of developing prostate-related problems by reducing inflammation and promoting overall health.

Hormonal Balance

The prostate is sensitive to hormonal changes. Testosterone and its derivative, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are involved in prostate growth. Imbalances in these hormones may contribute to conditions like BPH and, in some cases, prostate cancer.

Although typically considered a “female” hormone, estrogen levels can also affect men. When estrogen levels are relatively high compared to testosterone, it can lead to inflammation and contribute to prostate enlargement.

Stress and Mental Well-Being

Long-term stress weakens the immune system and can exacerbate inflammation in the body, including the prostate.

Poor sleep and chronic sleep deprivation can also negatively affect hormone levels and overall health, further impacting the prostate.

Environmental and Lifestyle Exposures

Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair blood flow and contribute to inflammation, increasing the risk of prostate issues. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can improve your overall and prostate-specific health.

Exposure to certain chemicals, such as pesticides or industrial toxins, may also play a role. Whenever possible, reducing exposure to these environmental hazards can be beneficial.

Signs You Might Be Experiencing Prostate Problems

Before we dive into these symptoms, keep in mind that not all of them are definitely linked to prostate problems – they can also be symptoms of other health concerns.  

Either way, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a physician should you notice one or more of the following symptoms:

• An increased urge to urinate, particularly during the night.
• A burning sensation or pain during urination.
• Blood in the urine or semen as well as painful ejaculation.
• Dribbling urine (unsteady flow).
• Pain or stiffness in the rectal area, pelvis, hips, and/or lower back.

The Benefits of Early Prostate Screening

Early screening makes timely intervention and treatment possible. When minor abnormalities are picked up early on, you can stop them from evolving into serious conditions like aggressive prostate cancer.

This proactive approach not only expands your treatment options but also improves long-term outcomes by catching the disease in its most manageable stages. You will more than likely also be able to go ahead with less invasive procedures with reduced side effects.

Moreover, early screening provides peace of mind and empowers you to take charge of your health. A preventative approach to health issues is always better than reactive treatments.

How Often Should I Schedule a Prostate Exam?

Your age, family history, and any existing health conditions will determine how often you should schedule a prostate exam.

If you are between the ages of 40 and 49 and have a PSA test (more on this later) result of under 2.5, you only need to get tested every 2 years. However, if you have a family history of cancer, your PSA test result is over 2.5, or you’re African American, it’s recommended that you schedule prostate exams more regularly.  

For men over the age of 50, it’s best to schedule an exam once a year.

Prostate Screening Tests

If you’ve never been for a prostate exam, your doctor could take one of two approaches when it comes to testing.

1. Prostate-Specific Antigen Test (PSA). This is the test that’s most used today. It’s a blood test that picks up on prostate-specific antigens in your blood. Higher levels of PSA are linked to prostate cancer. However, this is not a definitive indicator. Your doctor will also need to look at the medications you’re taking, whether your prostate is enlarged, and the symptoms you’re experiencing.
2. Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). During this test, your physician inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to check the health of the prostate. If any lumps or irregularities are found, further testing is required.

Caring for Your Prostate

Taking preventative measures to care for your prostate is highly encouraged after the age of 40.

Here are some of the changes you can make:

• Relook at your diet. Maintaining a healthy weight and increasing your intake of key vitamins and minerals is one of the easiest ways to increase prostate health. Reducing your red meat consumption and eating more green, leafy vegetables are recommended. Introducing supplements such as Prostera can also support a healthy prostate.
• Manage your stress. Because prolonged periods of stress weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness, it’s important to find ways to manage your stress. Practicing stress management techniques such as deep breathing, moving your body for 30 minutes a day, and quitting smoking can all help with this.
• Track your water intake. It’s not always easy to drink those 8 glasses of water per day, but your prostate will thank you for it, as will the rest of your organs. Plus, there are a number of free water-tracking apps available for download that can help make hydration a habit.
• Know your risk. And finally, the best way to care for your prostate and prevent problems is to understand your risks. If you don’t already have a full family history, now is a good time to collect that information so that you can plan accordingly.

In Closing

Prostate exams don’t need to be intimidating or off-putting. A simple blood test once a year can leave you with peace of mind and better health for many more years to come.